Cinema VinesOn July 20, a student protest led by the Committee for Justice and Peace (CJP) was met with a lathi‑charge, prompting a wave of criticism from Bollywood stars and activists. The demonstration, which demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination paper leaks, saw students and supporters suffer injuries and a palpable sense of national distress.
Indian actress Sonakshi Sinha, who has long been vocal about educational reforms, posted stark photographs from the clash on her social media. In her caption she wrote, “20th July bohot logon ki haddiyaan tooti aur ek POORE DESH ka dil toota. Yaad rakhna.” (July 20… many people suffered broken bones, and an entire nation’s heart broke. Remember that.) Her images highlighted the physical toll on the demonstrators and underscored the broader call for change.
Sinha also condemned the removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar on July 18. Wangchuk had been on a 22‑day hunger strike demanding reforms and was forcibly taken by police, later being transferred to a hospital. In an Instagram video, the “Dabangg” star expressed relief that Wangchuk was safe, adding that he remained strong and alert. She praised the protesters’ calm, respectful stance, noting, “No matter what has been going on, they have stayed calm, respectful, and have kept their point forward without violence. We all know the country’s strength is in its youth. Now, I feel like that’s true after looking at them.”
Another prominent figure, Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh, echoed the criticism of the police action. In a post on Instagram he wrote, “Aj Jo hoyea Baut Maada Hoyea… Students Naal Edan Treat Nhi Hona Chaida c… Mai Authorities Nu Request Karda Ke Students Dian Demands Nu sunn Leya Javey… Lokan Di Avaaz Rab Di Avaaz Hundi Aa…” (What happened today was very wrong. Students should not have been treated like this. I request the authorities to listen to the students’ demands. The voice of the people is the voice of God).
The collective outcry from these celebrities has amplified the students’ demands for educational transparency and accountability. As the protests continue, the spotlight remains on the government’s response to the alleged lathi‑charge and the broader issue of exam integrity in India.
